Want to get ahead of the travel pack? The hot travel trends and destinations are already forming for next year, from the safari scene to ultra-luxe hotel openings, active pursuits and top destinations. If you’re looking for the best luxury vacations to book, here’s your starter’s guide. Wild, unspoiled nature and low formality are two things that will set the tone, says the founder of trend forecasting website Globetrender, Jenny Southan. “Sometimes when people are investing a lot in a trip, it can create a lot of pressure,” she explains. “When everyone is in a relaxed state of mind then time together becomes more enjoyable.” From hotel merchandise to padel games, here are some of the top trip styles and places to travel in 2025.

1. The “it” hotel

One of the top trends Jenny has noticed is what Globetrender is calling “hotel hotlisting”. “High-net-worth travellers are chasing new hotel openings around the world to tick off, and in so doing may find themselves exploring places they hadn’t considered before,” she explains. Some of her top openings to watch in luxury vacation destinations for 2025 include the Corinthia Bucharest in Romania, Six Senses Papagayo in Costa Rica and One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana. Luxury Gold’s tours tick off many of the most sought-after hotels on the planet: your hotel hotlist might include Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, at Argentina’s Iguassu Falls (the Grand South America tour), South Africa’s striking Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa (Spectacular South Africa), and Ireland’s Ashford Castle (Castles & Kingdoms tour).

Brazil’s Belmond Hotel das Cataratas, by Iguassu Falls, might make your hotel hotlist

2. Accessible safaris

Safaris are for everyone – or they should be. Jenny points to a leader in this field – Ximuwu Lodge, in South Africa’s Klaserie Private Nature Reserve – as a pioneer of accessible safaris. Ximuwu’s vehicles are adapted for wheelchair users, as well as its lodge bedrooms, pool, corridors and communal areas; there are mobile ramps to access wildlife hide locations, strategically positioned for optimal lighting so all visitors can capture great images of the Big Five.

3. Nature for family bonding

Some of the best luxury vacations for the year ahead will be in naturally bountiful nations, says Jenny. “Nature-based retreats trump cities, for example. And less formality will enable everyone to feel more relaxed than white glove service,” she observes. “The emphasis will be on time together as a family – not leaving your children in a kids’ club all day, or with a nanny. In Italy, the Borgo Egnazia hotel is organising ‘Family Happiness Breaks’, for example.” Whether nature immersion means rugged National Parks or white sand beaches to you, think about getting the family out to an outdoors-focused destination such as Norway, Ireland or Australia.

National Parks like Banff in Alberta, Canada, could be the place for your next family vacation

4. Padel in paradise

Luxury vacation destinations are getting sporty with the latest fitness trends. “We have identified a trend for ‘Racketeering’, whereby people are seeking out hotels and resorts where they can play tennis and other popular racket sports, such as padel and pickleball,” says Jenny. Even the billionaires are at it. “Necker Island, Richard Branson’s resort in the British Virgin Islands, recently installed new padel and pickleball courts, while other high-end properties and cruise ships are following suit. Unlike tennis, padel courts are smaller and the games are easier to master. Plus they’re social,” says Jenny. 

5. The screen-inspired trip

“Nantucket on the US east coast and luxury Thailand will be big due to ‘jet setting'”, says Jenny – the two destinations feature in new Netflix show The Perfect Couple, starring Nicole Kidman, and the upcoming series of The White Lotus respectively. Other inspiration for 2025’s best luxury vacations will be the upcoming film Paddington in Peru and the Mediterranean island of Malta, which served as a location for both Jurassic World Rebirth and the highly anticipated Gladiator II. For southeast Asian serenity, White Lotus style, try Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Indochina itinerary; for Paddington worthy landscapes, book Treasures of the Incas.

6. Winter sun outside the box

New openings in classic locations such as the Seychelles will be big for next year, says Jenny, who cites the new Cheval Blanc in the islands as one of the most exciting openings on her radar. A Four Seasons is also coming to Belize, putting this less well-trodden Latin American destination on the luxury map. “I saw that Bahrain is promoting itself as a winter sun holiday destination,” she adds, “and there are a number of new luxury hotels opening on Saudi Arabia’s Red sea coast”. Get ahead of the high-end travel crowd by booking less obvious winter sun destinations before everyone else gets there.

Ancient spa practices from Cambodia to India will inspire wellness trips

7. Wearable hotels

One huge travel trend in the hospitality world is luxury merchandise, says Jenny. “More and more luxury hotels are jumping on the ‘shoppable stays’ trend, where they launch highly covetable branded merchandise, fashion apparel, sports gear and homeware. These are often in partnership with couture brands such as Dior and Fendi, but also the likes of Lacoste and Superga,” she says. “Pioneers include the One&Only and Four Seasons groups, as well as Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Marbella’s Puente Romano Beach Resort, the Beverly Hills in LA, and Grand Hotel Tremezzo and Passalacqua in Lake Como.” 

8. South America for digital nomads

South American countries including Argentina, Brazil and Colombia are emerging as the new digital nomad destinations, Globetrender has found. Good value living costs, sunshine, nature and vibrant communities are all thought to be draws for the world’s wealthy entrepreneurs -and where the working-from-abroad crowd goes, the luxury travellers will follow. Some of the best luxury vacations for 2025 can be found in magical Peru, Brazil, Chile and Argentina. See the best of the Latin American continent on Luxury Gold’s epic, 23-day Grand South America tour.

9. Authentic spa destinations

Tapping into historical spa and healing practices will be a big trend of 2024, say Jenny and Globetrender – they recently reported on the Skjol bathing ritual you can experience in Iceland. In terms of the best luxury vacations, the world’s top spa destinations will include India for Ayurvedic practices (the luxe hotels on the Imperial Rajasthan tour have you covered), Peru’s Inkaterra lodges for ancient medicinal treatments (Treasures of the Incas) and Cambodia and Laos for steam baths, meditation and massage (Inspiring Indochina).

10. Fabulous rail journeys

Taking the train will be a core part of the luxury experience in 2025, says Jenny – going on recent Globetrender reports of The Vietage train’s new experiences in Vietnam, and champagne catering on Belmond’s luxury trains in Singapore and Europe. Bucket-list rail experiences abound in Luxury Gold’s itineraries: from Switzerland’s mountain scenery aboard the Glacier Express to Norway’s Flam Railway and Japan’s iconic bullet trains, you can ride the rails in style on several continents.

Taking to the water is a supremely soothing and restorative experience – whether you’re gliding across Vietnam’s storied Halong Bay, traversing the neon-bright waters of the Great Barrier Reef, or simply plying the waters of the ancient Nile. River cruises, overnight “boatels” and adventurous day sailings should all be a part of your luxury travel itinerary. Here’s where Luxury Gold comes in – with our built-in days at sea or along the river, you’ll see your destination from a different perspective, stopping off for bucket-list swimming and sightseeing along the way. Here are the luxury cruise experiences to book for the year ahead.

Norway’s Fjords

The peaceful, rock-encircled fjords of western Norway are a must-see while in Scandinavia. On Luxury Gold’s 12-day Timeless Scandinavia tour – which traverses three countries in total – you’ll board a RIB boat to explore its Geiranger Fjord, gliding around this hook-shaped body of water surrounded by cathedrals of rock and skyscraper-tall waterfalls. You’ll feel dwarfed by the sheer scale of nature along this unspoiled body of water, counting the Seven Sisters waterfalls along with the lonely Suitor cascade while a guide tells you all about the local landscape – and lore. Afterwards, retreat to the nature-swathed Hotel Union Gerainger, where you’ll unwind in luxury surrounded by fjordland scenery.

Book Luxury Gold’s Timeless Scandinavia tour.

Egypt’s River Nile

One of the most important waterways in the history of civilization, the Nile still hums with ancient magic. You’ll spend seven nights sailing it on Luxury Gold’s Elegance of the Nile tour, embarking on one of the world’s best luxury cruise experiences aboard the deluxe, all-suite River Tosca vessel. Drifting along past riverbank palm trees, golden kasbahs, mountainside sunsets, wading birds and crocodiles, you’ll be living in style. A spacious outdoor sundeck has a swimming pool and lavishly cushioned sun loungers, a river-view restaurant lets you order with the breeze in your hair, and a smart library-lounge with books, views and a bar are the place to unwind. 

Book Luxury Gold’s Elegance of the Nile tour.

Halong Bay & the Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Southeast Asia is famous for its waters: glittering jade bays hugging white-sand beaches, snorkel-friendly lagoons, placid lily-ponds reflecting crumbling temples, jungle waterfalls with cooling pools. But nothing beats the two bucket-list experiences the region holds: Vietnam’s luminous Halong Bay and the mighty Mekong Delta. On Luxury Gold’s 16-day Inspiring Indochina tour, you’ll first take to the Mekong for a guided boat tour close from Ho Chi Minh City, stopping for lunch at the authentic Mango Home thatched restaurants and learning about life along the waterway. On day 11 of the tour, you’ll board a traditional Junk boat for one of the planet’s best luxury cruise experiences: sailing Halong Bay. A dazzling spot for a water-based adventure thanks to its bright emerald waters and vast limestone karsts (island mountains), it has floating villages, complex caves and white-sand beaches to spy from the comfort of your vessel. Sunset over this otherworldly setting is something to experience in your lifetime.

Book Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Indochina tour.

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

Crowned one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, the expansive Great Barrier Reef off Australia’s northeast coast, can be seen from outer space. On Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia tour, you’ll get up close and personal with its lurid turquoise waters, containing some 2,500 individual reefs and 400 types of coral, not to mention turtles, sharks, manta rays, clownfish and colourful Maori wrasse fish. On day three of your 13-day tour, you can opt to cruise the Barrier Reef, getting to know one of the world’s most complex eco-systems from the comfort of a captained boat. Borrow masks and snorkels to see the world beneath the surface, and speed past idyllic castaway islands on a sun-soaked day at sea.

Book Luxury Gold’s Inspiring Australia tour.

Matsushima Bay, Japan

Matsushima Bay, Japan (Tohoku Tourism/JNTO)

The world’s finest luxury cruise experiences take you to the still and quiet of nature, often found a stone’s throw from the most bustling metropolis. So it is in Sendai, northeast Japan, where futuristic Japanese architecture and innovation meets the wildness of the sea and craggy coastline. While here, a cruise through Sendai’s contemplative Matsushima Bay is a must; revered as one of Japan’s top three views, it’s factored into day seven of Luxury Gold’s 11-day Majestic Japan tour. Your private sailing will give unparalleled views of the hundreds of pine-covered islands, and you’ll hear about the cultural significance of Matsushima, which has had countless Haiku poems written about its beauty. Along with a serene tea ceremony, this luxury cruise experience will cement your love of Japanese culture while in underrated Sendai.

Book Luxury Gold’s Majestic Japan tour.

More luxury cruise experiences: Beauty Beyond Words: Past Guest Sal On Cruising Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.

Traveling is an exciting opportunity to explore new cultures, meet diverse people, and experience life from different perspectives. However, understanding travel etiquette is crucial to ensuring pleasant interactions and fostering positive relationships with locals and fellow passengers alike. Whether you’re boarding a long flight or sampling local delicacies, practicing travel etiquette can significantly enhance your journey. To help you out, we’ve put together a handy guide, and two of our expert Travel Concierges share their top travel etiquette tips.

Respect for Language and Culture

Before you head off on your journey, embracing a few key aspects of pre-trip etiquette means that once you arrive at your destination you’re already in tune with local culture and customs.

Learn a Few Key Phrases: Learning basic words and phrases in the local language, such as “hello,” “good morning,” “please,” and “thank you,” can greatly enhance your trip. This effort shows respect for the local culture and often fosters friendlier interactions. In many places, locals appreciate your attempt to communicate in their language, which can lead to more attentive and kind service from servers and others you encounter.

Research Local Customs: Each destination has its own unique customs and etiquette that can sometimes surprise travelers. For example, in Japan, tipping after a meal is often considered rude, while in many Asian countries, showing the soles of your feet is seen as disrespectful. In India and the Middle East, eating with your hands is customary, but using your left hand can be viewed as impolite.

Consider Local Religion and Sensibility When Packing: Clothing plays a vital role in demonstrating respect for local customs. In many regions, especially in Muslim-majority countries, it’s advisable to cover your arms and legs to ensure comfort for both yourself and the locals. Additionally, when visiting temples in Asia or churches in Italy, it’s important to make sure your shoulders are covered.

You may also enjoy reading: 100% Meaningful, 100% Memorable: Why Every Luxury Gold Journey Matters

Don’t Expect Things to be the Same as Home

When traveling, it’s essential to embrace the differences you’ll encounter rather than expecting things to mirror your home environment. Be open-minded and patient; understanding that others may have distinct ways of life will enrich your experience.

“A huge part of cultural expression is seen through the cuisine of a destination. When you visit a new country part of the joy is embracing their food and ways to prepare it,” says Travel Concierge Dom, who specializes in Iberia. “In fact, it is these differences that bring the country alive through your taste buds.

“I have seen visitors become annoyed in Spain when butter is not served with bread, primarily in places south of Madrid, when in fact they are visiting the largest olive oil producing country in the world. With a product this tasty, my advice is to try the many varieties and find one that you love. Of course you can always bring your own butter! But whatever you do, be polite about it.”

You may also be interested to read: Sunshine on a plate: Travel Concierge Dom on his love of Iberia

Dining Etiquette

Eating food and sharing a meal is one of the best ways to learn about another culture and make friends with locals.

Learn the Local Ways: Dining etiquette varies significantly across cultures, so it’s wise to research local customs before you arrive. For example, burping during a Chinese dinner is a compliment, while doing so at a British Sunday roast would not be the case. In Egypt, requesting salt and pepper if it’s not on the table is seen as bad manners, whilst in Japan, slurping noodles or soup is acceptable, but in Brazil, eating with your hands—including hamburgers and fries—is considered unclean.

Try the local foods, gracefully: Trying local foods is a vital part of experiencing a culture. Embrace new flavors, textures, and culinary traditions with an open mind and positive attitude, even if they differ from your usual preferences. Avoid negative comments or grimacing at unfamiliar dishes, instead ask questions and expressing appreciation. This respectful approach fosters genuine connections and you may just surprise yourself with what you like.

If you love sensational dining, we recommend you read: 5 Michelin Star chefs celebrating local culture through food

Etiquette up in the Sky

Such a key part of many vacations, air travel requires close contact with others, whatever class you travel, and exhibiting proper etiquette is essential. Understanding the subtle rules of conduct can significantly enhance your journey and the experiences of those around you.

“Being considerate of your fellow travelers and respecting their personal space is very important,” says Karen Gower, who was a Travel Concierge for over 10 years before becoming Senior Travel Experiences Manager Europe at Luxury Gold. “Something that I have seen more in recent years that I find very frustrating is people watching movies without headphones and expecting the rest of the plane to participate in their in-flight entertainment. However, it is also disruptive when people keep their headphones in and therefore miss all the announcements from the flight attendants, such as telling them to sit down!

“My advice to travelers to ensure that flying remains an enjoyable journey rather than a burdensome task is to always read your information. Even knowing all your boarding info, such as whether to board at the front or the back, and knowing how to navigate the security line can greatly enhance the experience and leave everyone feeling fresh and relaxed.”

Hear more wisdom form Karen: How Luxury Gold Journeys Go Above and Beyond with Expert Karen Gower

Whose armrest is whose? A valuable travel etiquette tip regarding armrests is to recognize the seating hierarchy: the window seat enjoys the armrest closest to the window, the aisle seat claims the outer armrest, while the middle seat—often regarded as the least desirable—has a right to both center armrests. Acknowledging this simple guideline can help reduce discomfort and tension during crowded flights, making the journey more pleasant for everyone.

Seat etiquette: Avoid reclining your seat during meals, as it can encroach on the space of the person behind you.. and take care not to overly knock the seat in front. If you plan to get up often, consider reserving an aisle seat for easier access.

Personal Grooming and Scents While personal care routines are popular on flights, do pay attention to how it affects your fellow travelers. Strong perfumes and scented personal care items can be overwhelming in the confined space of an airplane. A subtle spritz may seem like a good idea, but actually not welcomed by your neighbor.

Bookmark for later: Flying First Class: The Luxury Gold First-Timer’s Guide

Of Course, There’s Always Your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge

There is nothing more awkward than arriving in a foreign country without being familiar with the customs, which is where your Travel Concierge comes in. At the helm of every Luxury Gold journey, they’re an expert in the local culture and language. Offering insights into appropriate behaviors, dining protocols and cultural nuances, they help you navigate unfamiliar environments with confidence, ensuring you have the best experience, as well as ensuring a seamless, flawless journey from start to finish.